'Taste test' for Neanderthal DNA
Ever wondered how some people can bear to eat Brussels sprouts, or equally, why others hate them with a passion? Now 16 – 19 year olds have the chance to explore this question and the genetic science underpinning our sense of taste.
The gene that allows humans to taste bitterness is the basis of science workshops in Manchester, Bristol and Newcastle that will get students analysing their own DNA.
Recent research has shown that the gene was present in Neanderthals as well as humans, suggesting the gene has been in our DNA for more than 500,000 years. So we can rest assured that the debate over whether sprouts are food heaven or food hell has already been raging for at least half a million years!
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